Why do we use laboratory animals?

We use laboratory animals to address research questions, but only when there is no alternative and the question cannot be answered in any other way. Read here why we conduct animals experiments.

Ideally, we would avoid animal experiments altogether. Unfortunately, some crucial research questions can only be answered by using laboratory animals. Through the use of laboratory animals, we gather essential information about the health of humans and animals. They assist us in addressing scientific questions related to:

1. The functioning and development of the body
2. The behaviour of animals and humans
3. The development of diseases
4. The mechanism, dosage, and safety of medications

Much of this research is not feasible in humans for ethical or practical reasons. Consider, for example, studies on diseases that develop over decades in humans. Conducting such research without the use of laboratory animals would be extremely time-consuming.